The GMC Service Award is designated for alumni or friends of GMC who have rendered special service to the school, or any of its ancillary organizations. All nominees should show evidence of service and loyalty to GMC and their community organizations and activities. This award is the highest recognition and greatest expression of appreciation extended to an individual by the GMCAA, given for outstanding service and volunteerism. This is an annual award and may be presented to more than one nominee.
Mr. Torrance and his family have a long history of commitment and loyalty to GMC. Mr. Torrance started at GMC in the 8th grade in the fall of 1945. He graduated from GMC High School in 1950 and went on to attend the Junior College. His father attended GMC from about 1926 to 1928. His older brother, Larry graduated from GMC, and his sons, Tom, Andy, Steve, and daughter, Molly, all graduated from GMC.
Crediting GMC as giving him the foundation to succeed, Mr. Torrance went on to graduate from the University of Georgia. He was then commissioned an officer in the Army in 1954, serving 2.5 years active duty while being stationed in Germany and Austria. He served 25.5 years in the Reserves and National Guard, also graduating from Basic and Advanced Infantry School and Command and General Staff College, as well as the Industrial College of Armed Forces. He retired at the rank of Lieutenant Colonel.
Mr. Torrance has selflessly served this community and institution in several capacities for many years. He proudly served as a county agent in the area for 10 years. He went on to become a beloved teacher of economics at GMC for 10 years and Georgia College for an additional 10 years. He served on the original Executive Board of John Milledge Academy during its formation. In addition, Mr. Torrance served as a Baldwin County Commissioner for 8 years, on the hospital board for 5 years, and on the Housing Authority Board for 5 years. He has also faithfully helped to support the Torrance Family Endowed Scholarship at GMC.
Giving his time and devotion to his community and church has always been important to Mr. Torrance. He has taught Sunday school for over 50 years and has been a Deacon at First Baptist and then Community Baptist Church both of Milledgeville. He has been a member of Kiwanis since 1978 and also supported many community prospects and charities, including the 4-H Advisory Board and Leadership Baldwin Classes.
Always present with a smile to support GMC, Mr. Torrance embodies the characteristics at the very foundation of this institution. His enthusiasm for his beloved GMC and community is contagious and influential to all who have the good fortune of knowing him.
Grady and Frances Torrance reside in Milledgeville and have four children and many beloved grandchildren and great-grandchildren.